Morgan State mourns loss of former student-athlete, Gene Johnson

Gene H. Johnson, Jr. 
OCT. 6, 1987 - MAY 17, 2012
Photo Courtesy: Morgan State University Media Relations

BALTIMORE, Maryland – Morgan State former basketball student-athlete, Gene Johnson, died in his sleep last night (5/17/12) while at home in Hagerstown, Maryland. Emergency medical crews were called but attempts to revive him were unsuccessful. The exact cause of the 24-year old's death has not been confirmed and our thoughts are with his family, friends and former teammates at this time.

Johnson, a Hagerstown, Maryland native, began his career in 2007-08 as a walk-on and during his career he has been a member of one of the most dominant squads in the MEAC. He played a role in the Bears three regular season championships, finished with two MEAC championship rings, including an NIT appearance and two berths in the NCAA Tournament.

He was a versatile and athletic player who was one of the most liked players during his time as a Bear. Johnson graduated with a Sociology degree from Morgan State in May of 2011.

"Gene Johnson was one of MSU Athletics' brightest young talents who was loved by everyone in the Bears Family,” said MSU Athletics Director Floyd Kerr.

“His sudden loss has sent a ripple of sadness throughout the Morgan community. Gene was one of the best examples that gave meaning to the saying 'teamwork makes the dream work' because of his significant contributions and dedication to the championship basketball teams he played on. More importantly, he was a classy young man who had a dream to be successful, and I had high confidence that Gene would succeed. He will be missed by all. Personally, I will always remember him fondly as 'Radar Gene, with the built-in screen.'”

“This is a very sad day and a devastating loss of a great young man that we were very proud of,” said MSU head coach Todd Bozeman. “He played four years and started in a couple of games for us. Upon graduation, he started pursuing his master's degree. Our sincere condolences go out to his family and to all of those who knew him. He will be missed by many friends, teammates and others throughout campus.”

By MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY MEDIA RELATIONS